
The PhD Project Manager Internship is an apprenticeship program designed for PhDs and those very close to graduating who are interested in exploring a career at ECA.
This program will allow recent PhDs to evaluate what a career in executive search could look like and provide them the opportunity to join ECA as full-time Project Managers who will lead people, manage complex long-term projects, and develop a network of candidates and future clients.
At ECA, we deeply value the skill set PhDs bring to our client work. Many of our senior leaders began their careers through the PhD Project Manager internship, and we're excited to continue building on that success through this program.

Kay Francoeur, PhD
Engagement Manager
A compensated role with on-the-job training from fellow PhDs
Direct path to a management position with a strong potential for advancement
Opportunity to work with our New York or Los Angeles-based teams.
Hands-on project management experience and training
A direct track for career advancement in a professional environment
A deep understanding of the business world through interactions with leaders in private equity, management consulting, and some of the most recognized corporations in the world
Opportunities to apply research, critical thinking and communication skills in a non-academic setting
Love of tackling complex challenges
Innovation, insightful questioning & thought leadership
Rapid fluency with new & varied subjects
Strong large-project organization and management skills
Effective interpersonal & public communication
Alignment with ECA's evidence-based ethos - historically, PhDs have been our most successful hires

Managing Director
Joined ECA in 2018
UCLA, Sociology
Healthcare Practice Lead

Managing Director
Joined ECA in 2020
UC Santa Cruz, Philosophy
Finance Practice Lead

Senior Director
Joined ECA in 2021
UC Irvine, History
People Leadership & Sales Ops

Senior Director
Joined ECA in 2021
Northwestern University, Russian Language & Literature
Finance Practice

Senior Director
Joined ECA in 2022
UC Berkeley, Public Policy
CEO Practice
Featured insights and news on PhDs' impact on the business world.

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